Combined Effort

Suggested Scripture:
Deuteronomy 33:1-29

Key Verse:

Blessed are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD ? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will trample down their high places. (Deuteronomy 33:29, NIV)


When I was younger I enjoyed watching the cartoon Captain Planet. Each episode was a story o 5 young men and women who had been given extraordinary powers that they used to battle an array of Eco-Villains. There came a point in every battle where the Planeteers would need to pool their individual gifts--earth, fire, wind, water, and heart--to summon Captain Planet himself and defeat injustice and evil.

That popular Saturday morning program was a reminder of how God works in the lives of His people in order to impact the world. Each of us has a unique calling in life. God speaks to each of us individually in unique ways. He also draws us together with one common purpose. Sharing His Word with others happens only when we respond faithfully to His call, and combine our gifts and talents. There are times when He shows us quite clearly what it is we are to do. Other times He points us in a particular direction and from there we must rely on the prompting of the Holy Spirit to help us see where it is we are to go. What matters most is not how well we understand God when he calls us, but that we respond.

Whether we know exactly what God has in mind or not, we must voice our availability to be used by Him as as soon as He asks. When He calls our name and points us in a particular direction, we must step forward dutifully and say "here am I." We can do this without fear because we know that God will be with us every step of the way as we serve Him; it's His plan, we're just along for the ride. Just as the twelve tribes of Israel were blessed by Moses, we too are blessed to be part of God's chosen people. Captain Planet used to conclude each episode by reminding viewers that when it comes to saving the world, "The power is yours." As Christians we must keep in mind that the power to save mens' souls comes from God.

Reflecting Pool

Do you ever feel that God cannot use you on an individual level?

How have you seen God demonstrate His power through the combined energy and efforts of His people?

Is it difficult to remain humble when you see God use you for mighty things?